Welcome to Overdrive, a program that probes deeply into the issues of motoring and transport
I am joined by Paul Murrell
If you want to dive deeper into our thoughts, ideas, and occasional ramblings, you can find us on our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture.
Subjects
- McLaren Automotive’s newly announced $3.9 million W1 hypercar comes with an option of a watch at the snip of a price of $560,000
- Nissan is making vehicle to grid technology much more affordable which allows EVs to return power back to the grid or provide power for local needs such as your house in a blackout.
- Bathurst and advertising on cars – the good the bad and the ugly
- Launch of the Deepal S07 (at Bondi Beach) seeking out the influencers not just the traditional motoring press.
News summaries
Luxury Beyond Functionality: The Ultimate Statement of Wealth
The allure of luxury often lies in exclusivity. While anyone can buy top-tier TVs or phones, the truly wealthy seek something unique, like McLaren’s $3.9 million “WW1” hypercar, which comes with a matching $560,000 watch. This high-priced duo symbolises the desire to showcase status beyond regular tech. While most cars, regardless of cost, offer modern features and reliability, hypercars like McLaren serve as statement pieces, much like premium watches. The appeal isn’t functionality but image—a phenomenon mirrored in other industries, such as cigarette lighters and luxury pens. In an evolving tech landscape, luxury remains about making a bold, visible statement.
Nissan’s Electric Vehicle Innovations in V2G
Nissan has been a pioneer in electric vehicles, with its Leaf being the first mass-produced EV readily available to the public. However, it has struggled to maintain momentum in competitive markets including Australia, where new players are rapidly emerging. Today, EVs represent more than just mobility; they offer the potential to reshape energy use through innovations like vehicle-to-grid technology. T
his technology enables EVs not only to charge a vehicle but also to supply power back to the grid, or for local needs like powering your house during a blackout. For broader consumer adoption, EVs need to be practical, reliable, and affordable. Nissan is making Vehicle to Grid options more affordable which is becoming and increasing part of the equation.
Bathurst Races: The good, bad and Ugly of car signage
Paul and David discuss their Bathurst 1000 viewing habits, noting a shift from intense to casual engagement. They reflect on advertising’s role in motor racing, emphasizing simplicity for comprehension. Paul recalls old advertising rules, like easy-to-read typefaces and avoiding complex logos, particularly at high speeds. David notes modern strategies, including virtual billboards and on-car branding. Both agree that brand names have overtaken car numbers in importance, reshaping fan perception. They also lament the sanitisation of historical ads, especially tobacco sponsorship. The conversation concludes with musings on the persistent presence of iconic yet nostalgic brands like Chicko Roll, symbolizing broader changes in advertising and sport.
Changing Landscape of Vehicle Launches in Australia
The nature of vehicle launches in Australia has evolved, reflecting broader shifts in the automotive industry. Traditional car showcases have transformed into more dynamic, consumer-focused events, like the recent launch of Deepal’s S07 electric vehicle from China. Unlike past launches aimed primarily at motoring journalists, these new events resemble cocktail parties, appealing to diverse demographics and influencers.
The shift highlights China’s strategic approach to the Australian market, emphasising brand building over cheap, mass-market vehicles. Companies like Deepal are collaborating with established brands like Ford and Mazda, focusing on quality, technology, and cultural integration.
Contacts Details
Web Site: Driven Media: drivenmedia.com.au
iTunes: Cars Transport Culture
Spotify: Cars Transport Culture
Or our social pages
Or YouTube site
Search for Cars transport culture
Credits
And this has been overdrive
Thanks to
- Paul Murrell
- Brian Smith
- Mark Wesley
- Bruce Potter
for their help with this program.
You can get more of our work including longer versions of the program on our website, through our podcasts, or more visual information on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube. In all cases search for cars transport culture.
Overdrive is syndicated across Australia on the Community Radio Network
This program was first broadcast on 19 October 2024
I’m David Brown
Thanks for listening
